Page 9 - Risk Report 2024

IRMSA
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RISK REPORT 2024/25

4. Prologue by IRMSA Chief Executive

After three decades of democracy, South Africa is at a crossroads, shaped by the
accomplishments and challenges of our past.

Coinciding with this reflection on our national journey,
is this ‘special edition’ IRMSA South Africa Risk Report,
10th Edition, which I am distinctly honoured to present.
The Report comprehensively reflects on South Africa’s
multi-faceted risks: from socio-economic disparities
and political uncertainties to environmental concerns
and technological disruptions. These risks are complex
and dynamic, and the Report is a crucial tool to identify,
understand, and respond to these risks, thus enabling
informed decisions that safeguard our nation's future.

The value of this Report extends beyond its immediate
practical applications. It is the collective wisdom and
insight of diverse experts, making it an indispensable
resource for policymakers, business leaders, and risk
professionals. Encapsulated in these pages is an essential
strategic framework to navigate the uncertainties of our
contemporary world. Continually advancing the Report,
we have for the first time triangulated younger views
by converging multiple generations of knowledge. We
have also enhanced the Report’s geographic reach by
incorporating a reflection on SADC, Africa, and the world
– in line with our strategy to collaborate on multiple
fronts to secure sustainable solutions. We are certain
that the Report pioneers a new dispensation of foresight
that includes anticipated challenges and resilience
responses to foster a more secure and prosperous
future.

A special thank you to Christopher Palm and Christelle
Marais whose visionary leadership and unwavering
commitment have steered this project to fruition. YVONNE MOTHIBI
Your insights and guidance have been invaluable to Chief Executive
shape a Report that reflects the complexity of South IRMSA
Africa’s risk landscape. I also extend my heartfelt
gratitude to the more than 500 collaborators, experts,
and risk professionals whose nuanced perspectives
have enriched the Report and underscores the critical The extreme uncertainty and deep desire
role of risk management in our national sustainable for change reflected in the 2024 election
development.
results shape our risk landscape and the
opportunity to once more reconstruct our
country’s future.